Mr Collins, 33, was first rumoured to be The Stig after reports last year said builder Jason Goody, 21, did some work at his house and found The Stig's trademark suit and gloves on display in a cabinet.

Several racing drivers have been linked to the role, including former Formula One world champion Damon Hill.

More than seven million viewers saw Michael Schumacher 'unveiled' as The Stig after taking part in an episode last year but it turned out to be a gimmick and the BBC later said the identity of the driver at other times would remain "a mystery".

The current Stig is the show's second. The original, stunt driver Perry McCarthy, known as The Black Stig for his black helmet and overalls, was dropped during the third series in 2003 after his identity was discovered.